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The performance of the Brian Henson Presents: Puppet Up! Uncensored scheduled for Friday, March 9 at 7:30 pm at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts has been canceled due to an issue with the production company’s tour schedule. The show will not be rescheduled.

The Weidner Center has confirmed with Columbia Artist Theatricals that the planned tour for February and March has been canceled by the production company.

“We are disappointed to learn of the cancellation,” said Kelli Strickland, artistic and executive director of the Weidner Center. “We are unable to reschedule the performance given the late date of the cancellation. We will work with our patrons to ensure all ticket holders are notified and refunded.”

Ticket holders will receive refunds in the following ways: Tickets purchased by card will be credited back to the original credit card by February 28, 2018. Ticket holders who purchased via cash or check will be sent a check refund by mail from Ticket Star. For more information regarding tickets, please contact Ticket Star at 920-494-3401 or toll free at 800-895-0071.

Put on your ball gown, slip into your glass slippers and hop into your golden carriage to join us at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts for our Royal Tea Party prior to the 2:00 pm matinee of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella on March 31!This one-of-a-kind event will start at 12:30 pm and will end in time for guests to grab their seats for the show.

Join us in your princess finest for tea before the ball to decorate your own crown, and learn proper princess etiquette from a few special guests! Along with all of these great activities, enjoy small pastries and sweets with lemonade, tea and coffee. Green Bay’s own Cheese Cake Heaven will provide catering. Dressing up is encouraged.

Tickets are $15 for the Royal Tea Party. Guests must also have tickets to the 2:00 pm performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Tickets to the Royal Tea Party, and Cinderella are on sale now at www.WeidnerCenter.com,800-895-0071 and all Ticket Star locations. Event tickets are sold separately.

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is the Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features all the moments you love… the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and some surprising new twists! Rediscover some of Rogers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs in this magical Broadway experience for anyone who has ever had a wish, a dream…or a really great pair of shoes!

Jay Owenhouse, the Authentic Illusionist will perform at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 7:30pm. Jay Owenhouse is a legendary escape artist and one of the most awarded illusionists in history. He will perform for one night only in “Family Magic!” an intimate evening of grand illusions. Tickets are on sale now at WeidnerCenter.com, 800-895-0071 and all Ticket Star locations.

The elaborate stage show has been voted by audiences and critics alike as, “One of the Top 10 Live Shows in America.” Having amazed millions on television in “Masters of Illusions” and “Magic on the Edge,” Jay now welcomes you into his mysterious world of wonder and the impossible. You will experience a night of the most amazing magic in the world—Bengal tigers up close, dangerous escapes and inspiring storytelling. Owenhouse live is an evening that will leave you breathless with a feeling of childhood wonder that anything is possible!

Owenhouse spent 2008 touring China and Japan, where audiences voted the show “The Best Touring Family Show in Asia.” Now back in the U.S., he is working on his new television series and receiving critical acclaim for his live show, “Family Magic!”

Caught by the magic bug at four years old, Owenhouse first performed as a freshman in high school. Since then, in the spirit of “giving it away to keep it,” he’s invented magic effects and designed illusions not only for his show, but also for other magicians of world renown.

Everyone has a story to tell. As the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts enters its 25th season, with more than 4 million attendees and 9,000 events, the Weidner Center wants to hear from patrons past and present at #MyWeidnerMoment about the moments that have left an indelible mark on their lives.

Was it the moment you felt goosebumps when Itzhak Perlman bowed his first note? When you sat with your classmates in the magnificent Cofrin Family Hall as a fifth-grader for a Phuture Phoenix campus visit? Or performing in Cabaret on the Weidner stage as a UW-Green Bay student? You tell us.

The campaign kicks off with a call to the community from the Weidner Center’s Executive and Artistic Director, Kelli Strickland. “In my first few months I’ve heard fabulous stories from guests about their moments here at the Weidner,” says Strickland. “Some are romantic, others are hilarious. What’s great is that so many people in Northeast Wisconsin have a story about how this beautiful venue has touched their lives. There’s no better time than our 25th anniversary year to share these moments and that magic.”

Strickland will kick off the campaign by sharing her own #MyWeidnerMoment in the weeks ahead.

How to Share Your #MyWeidnerMoment
• Fill out the My Weidner Moment submission form
• Email at: wcpa@uwgb.edu
• Post on your photo or moment on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag: #MyWeidnerMoment

The Weidner Center for the Performing Arts officially opened on January 15, 1993. The idea of having a center for the performing arts in Green Bay had been a long-held dream for many members of the community, including UW-Green Bay’s founding Chancellor, Edward W. Weidner. Local patrons, Dr. David Cofrin and Mary Ann Cofrin, made a significant pledge to the planning and construction of the new facility under the stipulations that it be located on the UW-Green Bay campus, serve the entire community and be named in honor of Chancellor Emeritus Weidner. With extensive fundraising and perseverance, the dream became a reality and continues today as a breathtaking and acoustically superior facility in Wisconsin and a precious community and campus resource.

Brit Floyd, The World’s Greatest Pink Floyd Tribute Show will rock out on the Weidner Center Main Stage Tuesday, May 8 at 7:30 pm. Performing songs from Pink Floyd’s most popular and most beloved albums including Wish You Were Here, Animals, The Wall, The Division Bell and so much more! Tickets go on sale Friday, January 19 at Noon and will be available at WeidnerCenter.com, 800-895-0071, and all Ticket Star locations. VIP Preshow Meet & Greet Soundcheck Experience will also be available.

The Eclipse World Tour 2018 includes a very special retrospective salute to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Pink Floyds’ iconic 1973 album, The Dark Side of the Moon. Having sold over 45 million copies, and considered by many as one of the greatest records of all time, The Dark Side of the Moon is a psychedelic masterpiece that redefined rock itself, and firmly supplanted Pink Floyd as music legends.

Each night, Brit Floyd performs classic tracks from across Pink Floyd’s incredible discography. Widely regarded as the world’s greatest live tribute to Pink Floyd, the Brit Floyd Show has truly become a phenomenon. Faithfully recreating the pomp and spectacle of Pink Floyd’s 1994 Division Bell Tour, complete with stunning million dollar light show, large circle screen and arch, plus moving lights, lasers, inflatables and theatrics. The Brit Floyd Eclipse World Tour is as close as fans will get to experiencing all the magnificence of Pink Floyd live!

An internationally-acclaimed, female violin ensemble is coming to Green Bay to bring their high energy, hard rock show to the heartland. Know they’ll leave no doubts behind: women rock.

FEMMES OF ROCK, led by rock violinist and arranger, Nina DiGregorio, will headline a brilliant line-up of female rock performers on Jan. 13, 2018 at UW-Green Bay’s Weidner Center. FEMMES OF ROCK has rocked audiences worldwide with their blistering solos, unique arrangements—not to mention their beauty and charm.

FEMMES OF ROCK stars members of Bella Electric Strings and features the music of AC/DC, ELO, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, Metallica, David
Bowie, Pink Floyd and others. Bella Electric Strings has performed with artists including Beyonce, Rod Stewart, Cheap Trick, Deep Purple, Stevie Wonder, The Killers and many more.

They’ll be led in by a member of female rock royalty. Lita Ford joins the Weidner Center line-up. Her music career started in the 1970s as part of The Runaways alongside Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame Member Joan Jett. She’s better known for staking a claim for women in the testosterone-driven metal scene of the 1980s.

Ford hit the big time, MTV and the charts as a solo artist with her breakthrough album, “Lita,” in 1988. Ford’s single, “Close My Eyes Forever,” a duet with Ozzy Osbourne, reached number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Her hit single, “Kiss Me Deadly” peaked at number 12. Ford followed up with albums “Stilleto” in 1990 and “Dangerous Curves” the year to follow. She backed away from her music career, but came back with a vengeance and has been rocking hard once again since 2008. Her latest album, “Time Capsule,” and her autobiography, “Living Like A Runaway” were released in 2016.

An all-star, female ensemble from the performance-based Appleton Rock School music program will open the night and demonstrate the strength of the next generation of women who are ready, willing and able to rock.

It’ll be a night of rock, a night of women’s empowerment — and a night of helping our neighbors. A portion of the ticket proceeds will go to the YWCA of Green Bay, the Veterans Mentor Group of Appleton, the Jackie Nitschke Center and local based charities benefiting women in the Fox Cities and Green Bay areas.

“Femmes of Rock” with Special Guest Lita Ford is produced by Red Rock Productions, LLC.

After a nationwide search, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay announced today the appointment of Chicago arts leader Kelli Strickland as the new executive and artistic director of the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts. Provost Greg Davis announced the appointment. Strickland begins her new role October 31, 2017.

“Kelli brings great passion for the arts and executive level leadership to the Weidner Center,” Davis said. “Versed in both the operation of performing arts establishments and arts education, she is a fantastic addition to the Weidner Center, the University and the region’s broader performing arts community. We are confident she is going to connect with all of those constituents in new and meaningful ways while leading us in delivering on the Weidner’s important mission.”

Strickland comes to UW-Green Bay’s Weidner Center from the vibrant Chicago theatre scene where she served as executive director at two venues, The Hypocrites — one of Chicago’s premier off-Loop theatre companies — since April 2015, and prior to that the Raven Theatre, where she was the organization’s first executive director in its 35-plus year history.

Throughout her career Strickland has worked as an artist, arts educator, consultant and leader and has amassed a track record in fiscal growth and management, staff oversight, facility management, fundraising, marketing and partnership building across sectors. At The Hypocrites, Strickland doubled the individual donor base, tripled the subscriber base and spearheaded annual budget growth from $420,000 to $1.3 million. During her tenure as executive director at Raven, Strickland wrote and implemented the theatre’s first strategic plan, secured funding for a major facility improvement project and doubled the theatre’s revenues. In addition to her arts management background, Strickland has experience as an arts educator and consultant in program development, program evaluation and arts learning assessment.

“I am honored and excited to join the staff of the Weidner Center — a performing arts center with an extraordinary history, a bright future and a concert hall known well beyond the Midwest for its exquisite acoustics,” Strickland said. A former adjunct faculty member at Loyola University Chicago for 17 years, Strickland appreciates the connection between the Weidner, University and community.

“I place a very high premium on the symbiotic relationship between education and arts and culture,” Strickland said. “I was attracted to this role due to the Weidner’s mission to serve multiple groups — the communities of Green Bay and Northeast Wisconsin, and also the University community. An organization committed to a broad spectrum of stakeholders, inevitably yields a rich tapestry of programming and a vibrant institution.”

Having previously served as the Raven Theatre’s director of education and outreach since 2007, Strickland took a leave in 2012-13 to complete the prestigious Devos Fellowship for Arts Management at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

“Kelli is a smart and passionate arts leader,” said Michael Kaiser, president of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (Emeritus) and president of the Devos Institute of Arts Management. “She has a great record of success managing performing arts organizations and will be a remarkable asset for the Green Bay community.”

“There are many disciplines that comprise the performing arts, and Strickland says she is excited to build a robust portfolio of offerings. “World-class dance, music, spectacle, circus arts, spoken word and multi-media are all part of the performing arts landscape now,” she said. “In addition, I recognize the local community has an interest in continuing to bring popular entertainment, including Broadway titles, celebrity personalities and quality family productions to the center. I am keen to pursue and expand the opportunities to bring these titles to Northeast Wisconsin.”

Continuing, and possibly growing “The Stage Doors Education Series,” which serves more than 17,500 students from 63 cities throughout Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula every year, will be a priority.

Strickland also wants to see underutilized gallery space shining a light on established regional artists, as well as up-and-coming artists training at the University. “I hope to see some exciting and free community events so that those who don’t know us yet have a chance to get to know us. And, of course, we will proudly continue to serve as a laboratory for the students at UW-Green Bay.”

What others are saying about Kelli Strickland, Executive and Artistic Director of the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts:

“Kelli Strickland has been a thoughtful, vibrant, active and much-admired leader in Chicago’s theatre community. There is no doubt in my mind that the Green Bay area will benefit from her passion, energy and commitment to the arts.” – David Schmitz, Executive Director, Steppenwolf Theater Company

“Kelli blends a passion for the performing arts (in their many forms) with an awareness of audience needs and the business of running a theater.” – Phillip Bahar, Executive Director, Chicago Humanities Festival

“Ms. Strickland’s leadership style is pragmatically collaborative, open to ideas of priorities and of means to accomplish priorities, incorporating decision making grounded in data, leavened with a sense of humor.”- Stephen Johnson, Treasurer, Board of Directors, Raven Theatre

“Kelli is one of the most talented arts administrators I know, with an unusual combination of both deep artistic knowledge and experience and an incredible command of arts strategy. This is a big loss for Chicago and a huge gain for Green Bay.” – Angel Ysaguirre, Executive Director, Illinois Humanities Council

The internationally acclaimed Jazz Ambassadors of Washington, DC will continue its long tradition of presenting free public performances when it appears at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s Weidner Center for the Performing Arts, Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017 at 7:30 pm.

The Jazz Ambassadors is the official touring big band of the United States Army. Formed in 1969, this 19-member ensemble has received great acclaim at home and abroad performing America’s greatest original art form, jazz. Concerts by the Jazz Ambassadors are programmed to entertain all types of audiences. The band’s diverse repertoire includes big band swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary jazz, standards, popular tunes, Dixieland, vocals, and patriotic selections, many of which are written or arranged by members of the Jazz Ambassadors.

The Jazz Ambassadors has appeared in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Japan, India, and throughout Europe. Recent notable performances include concerts at the Toronto Jazz Festival, the Richmond Jazz Festival at Maymont, the Kennedy Center Honors, the Jazz Education Network Conference, and an appearance on the Colbert Report. Gordon Goodwin, Bobby Shew, Ernie Watts, and the Dave Brubeck All-Star Quintet are just a few of the outstanding jazz artists who have shared the stage with the Jazz Ambassadors. The band has been featured in joint concerts with Marvin Hamlisch and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the San Diego Symphony Orchestra, the Seattle Symphony Pops, the Colorado Pops Orchestra, and the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall. The band’s rigorous touring schedule and reputation for excellence has earned it the title “America’s Big Band.”

This is a free event with general admission seating. All patrons must have a printed ticket for entrance to the theatre. To submit an online request for free tickets (limit 6 per order) or for more information please visit WeidnerCenter.com. To pick up your tickets in-person visit Ticket Star at the Resch Center or at the University Ticketing and Information Center located in the UW – Green Bay University Union. To obtain free tickets by mail, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your request to:

STOMP, the international percussion sensation, returns to Green Bay, WI at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are on sale Friday, September 22 at 1 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at www.weidnercenter.com, in person at all Ticket Star locations, or by phone at 800.895.0071.

From its beginnings as a street performance in the UK, STOMP has grown into an international sensation over the past 20 years, having performed in more than 50 countries and in front of more than 24 million people. Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas, STOMP continues its phenomenal run with four global productions: the ongoing sell-out production at New York’s Orpheum Theatre, a permanent London company, and North American and European tours. Throughout its life, the show has continued to change by creating new material; next year/this year (depending on when release goes out), it will incorporate two new pieces. It is safe to say you will never again look at supermarket carts or plumbing fixtures the same way… or paint cans, or kitchen sinks or…

STOMP, an overwhelming success marked by rave reviews, numerous awards, and sell-out engagements, is the winner of an Olivier Award for Best Choreography (London’s Tony Award®), a New York Obie Award, a Drama Desk Award for Unique Theatre Experience, and a Special Citation from Best Plays.

In addition to the stage shows, STOMP has been an overwhelming success marked by rave reviews, numerous awards, an Academy Award nomination, four Emmy nominations and one Emmy Award for their acclaimed HBO special Stomp Out Loud, noteworthy TV appearances including The London 2012 Olympic Games Closing Ceremony, The Academy Awards (produced by Quincy Jones), Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and a series of award-winning international commercials.

The performers “make a rhythm out of anything we can get our hands on that makes a sound,” says co-founder/director Luke Cresswell. A unique combination of percussion, movement and visual comedy, STOMP has created its own inimitable, contemporary form of rhythmic expression: both household and industrial objects find new life as musical instruments in the hands of an idiosyncratic band of body percussionists. It is a journey through sound, a celebration of the everyday and a comic interplay of characters wordlessly communicating through dance and drum.

Synchronized stiff-bristle brooms become a sweeping orchestra, eight Zippo lighters flip open and closed to create a fiery fugue; wooden poles thump and clack in a rhythmic explosion. STOMP uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – dustbins, tea chests, radiator hoses, boots, hub caps – to fill the stage with a compelling and unique act that is often imitated but never duplicated.

Critics and audiences have raved: “STOMP is as crisp and exuberant as if it had opened yesterday,” says The New York Times. The San Francisco Chronicle declares “STOMP has a beat that just won’t quit!” The Los Angeles Times exclaims: “Electrifying! Triumphs in the infinite variety of the human experience.” “A phenomenal show! Bashing, crashing, smashing, swishing, banging and kicking – a joyous invention!” says the Chicago Tribune.

Award-winning artists Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey will ring in the holiday season together again this year on the Celebrate Christmas Tour, presented by Medi-Share, a national healthcare-sharing organization. Following a successful run of Christmas dates in 2016 where they performed for multiple sell-out crowds, Natalie and Danny will co-bill their popular Christmas tour again this season, sharing the stage each night in a fully integrated set. The show stops at the Weidner Center on Saturday, December 2, 2017, for one show at 7pm. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 25, 2017, at 11am through Ticket Star.

Launching Nov. 30, the Celebrate Christmas Tour is scheduled to hit 12 cities across the U.S., including stops in Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Louisiana, Texas, Ohio, Indiana and Missouri before concluding Dec. 17. Ticket information for the Celebrate Christmas Tour is available at www.CelebrateChristmasTour.com.

A six-time Grammy nominee and five-time Dove Award-winning Female Vocalist of the Year, Natalie Grant and eight-time Dove nominee and two-time K-LOVE Male Artist of the Year (2016 and 2017) Danny Gokey are a quintessential vocal pairing, setting the stage for an unforgettable Christmas experience. Under the musical direction of Grammy-winning songwriter/producer Bernie Herms (Josh Groban, Barbra Streisand, Casting Crowns, Natalie Grant, Danny Gokey) the Celebrate Christmas Tour will allow Grant and Gokey to craft a collaborative set as they perform a combination of Christmas classics along with selections from Grant’s critically-acclaimed, soulful-tinged Christmas project Believe, and Gokey’s Dove Award-winning album Christmas Is Here. Selections will include favorites like “O Holy Night,” “Joy To The World,” “Mary, Did You Know?” and more.

“I’m so excited to be doing the Celebrate Christmas Tour with Danny again this year,” says Natalie. “I especially love it because the entire evening is collaborative, which makes it very unique not only for us as performers, but for the audience as well. And Christmas music is my favorite, so I can’t wait!”

“I’m really looking forward to this tour,” Danny adds. “It’s actually my favorite of the year! (Can I say that? Ha-ha!) I love singing with Natalie and I think we’ve created such a fun, interactive night that really celebrates all aspects of the season. Christmastime captures the wonder of God’s gift to us and also the kindness of the human spirit. I think that is all reflected in the music we’re going to be doing each night!”

ABOUT NATALIE GRANT
Six-time Grammy nominated Natalie Grant is known for her powerful and soaring vocals, heart-gripping lyrics and passionate performances, and has remained one of the top-selling Christian & Gospel artists since her 2005 breakout RIAA Gold certified album, Awaken. She has since gone on to have nearly 4 million in career sales. The Gospel Music Association has named her Female Vocalist of the Year five times and she has had multiple #1s on the Billboard chart. Beyond her music career, Natalie has been an outspoken advocate for victims of human trafficking since 2005. She co-founded Hope for Justice International, which identifies and rescues victims of trafficking and then provides them with complete restorative care. The organization now has eight offices spanning four countries and three continents. Though she is a Seattle native, Natalie makes her home in Nashville with her husband, producer/songwriter Bernie Herms, and their three children: twins Grace and Bella, and their youngest, Sadie.

ABOUT DANNY GOKEY
Dove Award Winner and two time KLOVE Male Artist of the Year, Danny Gokey became a favorite of millions of fans as a Top 3 finalist on Season Eight of American Idol. Following Idol, Gokey released his debut album, My Best Days, which debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart. Since that time, Danny has celebrated a series of #1s including his follow-up album release Hope In Front of Me, his latest full album release Rise, and his first Award-winning holiday album, Christmas Is Here. Spawning singles like “Hope In Front of Me,” “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again,” “Rise” and his single “The Comeback,” Danny has cemented his place on the radio charts with multi-week, multi-chart #1 runs both in the United States and in Canada. Gokey’s hit single “Rise” and his newest single “The Comeback” have recently been released in Europe.

Danny is the founder of Sophia’s Heart, an organization established in 2008 in honor of his late wife, who passed away from a heart condition just prior to his time on American Idol. Gokey is a native of Milwaukee and currently lives in Nashville with his wife, Leyicet and their two children. The couple is currently expecting their third child in Fall of 2017.

ABOUT CHRISTIAN CARE MINISTRY
Florida-based Christian Care Ministry operates the Medi-Share health care sharing program, through which members voluntarily and directly share each other’s medical bills. Since the program’s inception in 1993, Medi-Share members have shared more than $1.2 billion in medical bills. And, because of access to an extensive network of more than 700,000 health care providers, members have saved an additional $690 million in medical costs during that time. Medi-Share has more than 300,000 members nationwide. More than just health care, Christian Care Ministry is a community of people who share their lives, faith, talents, resources and pray for and encourage one another. For more information, visit MyChristianCare.org/Medi-Share.

The Russian Grand Ballet is pleased to present one of the world’s most famous ballets – Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake on Wednesday, November 15 at 7:00pm at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts. This full-length classical production features the rarely seen Waltz of the Black Swans, and marks the first time the Russian Grand Ballet has ever performed in Green Bay. The Weidner Center show is a part of 2017 US Tour. www.RussianGrandBallet.com

Tickets are on sale Monday, August 14 at 11 am. Prices start at $23 and can be purchased online at www.weidnercenter.com, in person at all Ticket Star locations, or by phone at 800.895.0071.

Swan Lake features the story of Odette, a beautiful princess, who falls under the spell of an evil sorcerer. Only Prince Siegfried’s devotion can save her. Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake combines pure romanticism and tragedy, in a magical tale of love and deception. The glorious score and gravity-defying choreography have enchanted audiences for over a century, and continue to inspire new generations of dancers and music lovers of all ages.

Russian Grand Ballet’s full-length classical production features Russia’s brightest ballet stars. Founded by graduates of the great choreographic academies of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and
Kiev, and steeped in the history of classical Russian ballet, Russian Grand Ballet has been bringing most beloved full-length classics to audiences around the world since 2005.

Under the leadership of Constantine Pinchuk and award-winning ballet master Andrey Litvinov, the company has expanded to include a corps de ballet of over fifty dancers, joined each year by renowned guest artists dancing principle roles. This year marks the company’s third North American tour with visits to 60 cities across the United States, and the presentation of two masterworks that define the art form – The Nutcracker and Swan Lake.

Tickets are on sale now for the Champions of Magic at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts on October 25, 2017, at 7:30pm. The five world-class illusionists that make up the Champions Of Magic come to the USA for the first time following four years touring the UK with sold out shows, rave reviews and a run in London’s West End. Tickets may be purchased online at WeidnerCenter.com, by phone at 800-895-0071, or in person at Ticket Star locations.

With over 20 million online views between them, this cast of Britain’s top magicians includes international award winners presenting incredible mind reading, stunning close-up magic and daring large-scale illusions. Their skills have been seen around the world on TV with appearances on The CW’s ‘Penn & Teller: Fool Us,’ CNN’s ‘A Quest For Magic’ and NBC’s ‘Caught On Camera With Nick Cannon.’

Witness the impossible, including disappearances, levitation, teleportation and a heart stopping finale, all presented with lighting and special effects to rival the biggest theatrical spectacles.

Described by the British Press as “a spectacular family show” (Heart FM) and “slick, clever, funny and amazing” (Hereford Times) Champions Of Magic has been seen by thousands across the UK and in Fall 2017 US audiences will get their first chance to see why British fans return to see the country’s biggest touring illusion show time and time again.

The Sussex Newspaper said “Quite simply, mind blowing. I urge you to quickly get whatever tickets are still available because Champions of Magic is a show that has to be seen to be disbelieved… five stars!”

The Western Mail declared “Move over David Blaine, there’s a host of new magicians in town. With a live video feed, fiery pyrotechnics and stunning lighting, the show is an immersive experience in the art of magic.”

The Hereford Times called the team “The UK’s top illusionists… fast becoming household names with their high energy and spectacular tricks… theirs is a pulse racing performance like no other.”

Tickets for the 2017-2018 Weidner Center Performing Arts Season will go on sale this Thursday, July 20 at 11 am. Tickets may be purchased online at WeidnerCenter.com, by phone at 800-895-0071, or in person at Ticket Star locations.

The season kicks off in October with The Simon & Garfunkel Story. This 50th Anniversary celebration features a full band, huge projection photos and original film footage. Patron favorites, Jerry Seinfeld, Holiday Pops, Doctors in Recital and Riverdance 20 Years return this season. Highlights of the season include the Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical Rogers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella and the Tony®, Grammy® and Olivier® Award-winning Best Musical the Jersey Boys. This season includes a “first” for the The Green Bay Civic Symphony, in collaboration with the UW-Green Bay Music program, as they present Verdi’s Requiem.

Tickets can be ordered online at WeidnerCenter.com, by calling 800-895-0071 or in person at all Ticket Star locations. Groups of 10 or more can order now by calling Ticket Star at 920-405-1249. All ticketing information is available at www.WeidnerCenter.com.

Jerry Seinfeld to Appear On Stage at the Weidner Center on Friday, January 26 at 7pm. Tickets On Sale Thursday, July 20 at 11am!

America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, will be performing his signature stand-up routine at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts. Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. Seinfeld now sets his sights on performing both nationally and internationally in 2017. Tickets available online at www.WeidnerCenter.com, Ticket Star Outlets or charge by phone 920-494-3401 or 1-800-895-0071.

More than 50 Broadway musicals, beloved children’s performances, comedic icons and more take to the Weidner Center stage for 2017-2018 Performing Arts Season

A (PAW) patrol, a princess and some boys from the Jersey Shore will all grace the Weidner Center for the Performing Art’s stage during the 2017-2018 season. And that’s just the beginning. The center’s 2017-2018 line-up, announced June 21 at the Weidner Center, includes more than 50 performances and sets the stage for a season that rings true to the premiere performing art center’s mission.

“The Weidner is a unique venue in Northeast Wisconsin, with a dual mission to enrich our community and the academic experience of students on campus,” noted University Provost Gregory Davis at the season announcement. “Our distinction is one we savor. We are constantly looking for ways to blend the educational mission of the University with our commitment to the community. The 2017-2018 Weidner Season does just that in some very exciting ways.”

According to Weidner Center Programming Manager Stephanie Maufort, the robust 2017-2018 performance calendar demonstrates the Weidner’s enduring commitment to bringing sought-after national performing artists to the area with a promise to grow the musicians, actors and set designers of tomorrow. “In this prequel year to our 25th anniversary, we’re focusing on our roots with a renewed focus on bringing together community, university and beyond.” The season line-up includes:

University Music and Theatre Unveil Dynamic Programs

UW-Green Bay Music and Theatre also unveiled their upcoming season schedules during the event. The Music season includes Jazz Fest 48 (the longest running jazz festival in Wisconsin), Verdi’s Requiem (in collaboration with the Civic Symphony of Green Bay), and dozens of other performances by UW-Green Bay students, faculty and staff.

“We’re thrilled to give students so many performance opportunities during the year while bringing great variety to the local arts scene,” says Randy Meder, Chair of UW-Green Bay’s Music program. “The opportunity to perform in one of the most acoustically amazing concert halls in the Midwest is, for many of our students, the highlight of their college careers.”

Meder noted that the University will also host the American International Czech and Slovak Voice Competition October 13-15, 2017, featuring some of the most talented up-and-coming vocalists from around the world.

UW-Green Bay’s Theatre and Dance, a seven-time recipient of the Kennedy Center’s Region III American College Theatre Festival’s company award for professionalism and safety, remains under the direction of University Theatre Professor Jeff Entwistle. University students are coming to the stage in Legally Blonde: The Musical; the highly popular Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson (the most produced living playwriting in America); and Danceworks, a celebration of dance in concert of faculty and student choreography, among others.

“Our 2017-18 season is giving our students great opportunities with the works of great playwrights,” Entwistle said. “We believe every Theatre and Dance season is special; and this one is going to be thought provoking, hilarious, and spectacular for students and the community alike.”

Tickets

Weidner Center 2017-2018 Performing Arts Season tickets are currently on sale via subscription through July 16, 2017. To become a Weidner subscriber, simply select three or more Weidner Center events. Subscribers have the opportunity to buy tickets before the general public, get the best seats and save up to 10 percent on their purchase. Subscription order forms reflect discounted prices. Orders of less than three events will be processed at full price on July 20 when single tickets go on sale to the general public. You can place your subscription order online at WeidnerCenter.com, by calling 800-895-0071 or in person at all Ticket Star locations. Groups of 10 or more can order now by calling Ticket Star at 920-405-1249. Single tickets go on sale to the general public July 20, 2017, at 11am. All ticketing information is available at www.WeidnerCenter.com.

Special show items to note: Mystery Science Theater 3000 Live! and Peppa Pig Live! are on sale now. Weidner Center Subscribers will receive special presale access for PAW Patrol Live! before single tickets go on sale in September. Tickets for the University Music and Theatre Season go on sale in September.

* Event held in University Theatre in the UW-Green Bay Theatre Hall building

THE 6:30 CONCERT SERIESThe 6:30 Concert Series is an innovative performance series designed to connect the campus and surrounding communities with music in a deeper way. Performances feature insightful presentations by performers, composers, and special guests. The series offers new perspectives on diverse musical styles, often exploring the music from multiple angles. The focus of the 2017-2018 series is the adventurous musicianship of the UW-Green Bay Music faculty. All performances begin at 6:30pm, last between 60 and 90 minutes, and are free and open to the public. Visit www.UWGB.com/music in September for full schedule.

For the first time ever, join Joel Hodgson, creator of the critically acclaimed “Mystery Science Theater 3000” TV show and its new host Jonah Heston (Jonah Ray) as they bring the first live touring production of “MST3K” to the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday,August 6, 2017 at 7pm for the “Watch Out for Snakes!” Tour.

Appearing with Joel and Jonah live on stage will be robot companions Crow (Hampton Yount), Tom Servo and Gypsy, along with Synthia (Rebecca Hanson) and her Bonehead henchmen. Of course, it wouldn’t be “MST3K” without the ever-present surveillance of the Mads, Kinga Forrester (Felicia Day) and TV’s Son of TV’s Frank (Patton Oswalt), checking up on their unwilling test subjects via a video screen.

The tour consists of two separate, completely unique shows, each with its own admission. Fans wanting the complete tour experience should purchase two tickets, one for each show. Each event will include all the things expected from an “MST3K” experience: a cheesy B-movie, hilarious riffing, wisecracking robots, silly sketches, plus – for the first time – audience participation! Show # 1 is the MST3K favorite “Eegah,” featuring all-new riffs and sketches. Show # 2 is a “Secret Surprise Film!” It’s a fun, sci-fi thriller never before featured on “MST3K” and it will be performed only in select cities. The Weidner Center tour stop will feature show #1, “Eegah,” on August 6, 2017 at 7pm.

Following its record-breaking #BringBackMST3K Kickstarter campaign, the new season of the show launched on April 14, 2017, exclusively on Netflix. The two live shows are written by the cast and writers of the new Netflix Original Series, which has earned a critics’ rating of 100% Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes.. The New York Times hails, “At last, a revival of something actually worth reviving… a different cast but the same outlook and style — and mercifully, the same reliable, giddy humor.” “MST3K is just as hilarious as ever in rebooted form, turning its bemused eye on old, schlocky fare for some good, old-fashioned riffing,” raves Vanity Fair. And Nerdist says “The references are updated, the sets are snazzier, but the heart and soul of MST3K certainly remains intact.”

Tickets for “MST3K” “Watch Out for Snakes!” North American tour dates will go on sale to the public Friday, May 19 at noon local time via AXS.com and available through WeidnerCenter.com, 800-895-0071, or at all Ticket Star locations. Please note where there are multiple performances in a single market, each event is ticketed SEPARATELY.

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HISTORY OF MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000: For almost 30 years, the award-winning comedy television series Mystery Science Theater 3000 has been known as one of the top cult TV shows of all time. The story of a human host and his robot sidekicks trapped aboard a satellite and forced to watch cheesy movies by their captor, MST3K has maintained its reputation thanks to its fervently devoted fan base, known as MSTies.

Created by Joel Hodgson, the first season of Mystery Science Theater 3000 aired in 1988 on KTMA-TV in Minneapolis. Set on the Satellite of Love, the series follows a hapless host trapped by mad scientists on a satellite in space, who is forced to watch some of the most outrageously unfortunate B movies ever created. To keep sane, he’s built two robot sidekicks, and together they do a running commentary on the films, affectionately mocking their flaws with inspired wisecracks and acting as a lively movie theater peanut gallery.

MST3K’s national broadcast life began in 1989 on the Comedy Channel (later to become Comedy Central), where it ran for seven seasons. The show’s final three seasons aired on the Sci-Fi Channel. Series creator Hodgson originally played the stranded man, Joel Robinson. When he left in 1993, series head writer Mike Nelson replaced him as the new B-movie victim, and continued in the role for the rest of the show’s run. The format proved to be popular, and during its ten seasons and 197 episodes on the Comedy Channel and later, the Sci-Fi Channel, it attained a loyal fan base and critical acclaim, including a Peabody Award and two Primetime Emmy® nominations.

In late 2015, Shout! Factory and creator Joel Hodgson formed a new partnership known as Satellite of Love LLC, to acquire the global IP rights to MST3K with the aim of producing new episodes and managing and developing the IP in other areas. The highly successful Mystery Science Theater Kickstarter campaign to #BringBackMST3K, spearheaded by Shout! Factory and Hodgson surpassed its goal by funding the production of 14 new episodes and set the world record as the highest-funded Film and TV crowdfunding campaign in history. The new episodes of Mystery Science Theater 3000 debuted as a Netflix Original Series on April 14th, 2017.

The Weidner Center for the Performing Arts announces the 2017-2018 Stage Doors Education Series. This new season builds on the growing and successful Stage Doors Education Series. The Stage Doors Education Series provides meaningful educational opportunities for students travelling from over 63 cities and 21 counties throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The release of the Stage Doors Education Series schedule serves as an exciting prelude to the June announcement of the 2017-2018 Weidner Center Performing Arts Season lineup.

The 2017-2018 Stage Doors Education Series kicks off in November 2017 and extends through April 2018, featuring nine titles and a total of 18 performances. This season brings to the Weidner Center national and international touring shows to Green Bay. Programs are selected to complement current classroom curriculum with creative and imaginative learning, critical thinking opportunities and live performance experiences. Performance-specific study guides are provided to help educators integrate show topics into classroom activities.

The Weidner Center continues its educational partnership with The Children’s Museum of Green Bay, Heritage Hill State Historical Park and The National Railroad Museum. This year the Weidner Center excited to announce another educational partnership with the Neville Pubic Museum. Students attending select performances have the option to participate in a full day of activities, interactive learning and special hands-on projects related to each show.

The following is the full 2017-2018 Weidner Center Stage Doors Education Series schedule. All shows are at 10:00 am and 12:30 pm.

November29 Pete the Cat

January25 The Science of Magic with Bill Blagg

February6 Mad River Theatre Works – Freedom Riders
26 Nugget & Fang

March5 Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great
15 Guess How Much I Love You

The annual Stage Doors Education Series is a program of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and is made possible by the generous support of the George F. Kress Foundation and Green Bay Packaging Inc., Morgan Stanley Foundation, The Schanock Family Foundation, Open-Sense Solutions LLC, and KHROME.

How To Make Reservations for the 2017-2018 Series:All information about the 2017-2018 Stage Doors Education Series at the Weidner Center can be found online at www.WeidnerCenter.com. Reservations from schools and home school families are being accepted now via mail, fax or online. Series brochures will be mailed to educators in September. Show tickets are $7, package tickets with area partners are $10. Information, study guides, policies, scholarship applications and registration forms can be downloaded at www.WeidnerCenter.com. For brochure requests and questions, please call (920) 465-5100.

Regrettably the fall date for An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin has been canceled. With the increased demand related to her successful Netflix series Grace and Frankie the 2017 fall date is no longer possible. The show was scheduled at the Weidner Center for October 7, 2017. Both sides worked in earnest to try and find a re-scheduled date, even waiting until the Packer schedule was announced to explore every possibility. We understand from Lily’s management she’s disappointed this has not worked out, and of course we are as well. Current ticket holders will automatically be credited back to the original credit card of purchase. Purchases made by cash or check will be refunded via check by Ticket Star. Please contact Ticket Star or the Weidner Center with any questions.

Surprise, Peppa Pig fans! A brand new, live stage show announced today ensures Peppa Pig will be touring North America through 2017 and beyond. Peppa Pig’s Surprise will visit more than 60 cities, stopping by the WEIDNER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS on NOVEMBER 10. The Peppa Pig stage show, based on Entertainment One’s (eOne) top-rated TV series, airing daily on Nick Jr., is one of the most successful family theater tours in U.S. history. One hundred twenty five venues have completely sold out with 300,000 tickets sold in the U.S. to date.

Tickets will be available at WeidnerCenter.com, by calling 1-800-895-0071 or in person at TicketStar. VIP packages that include a meet and greet are available starting Tuesday, March 7 at 12 Noon local time. Tickets will go on-sale to the public beginning Saturday, March 11 at 11:00 a.m. local time.

In Peppa Pig’s Surprise, it’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and her younger brother George, but no matter how hard they try, they cannot guess what it is. Audiences will enjoy interactive fun, games and, of course, many surprises. The live show encompasses the charming, colorful nature of the incredibly popular television series and features brand-new songs and life-size puppets that walk, talk, dance, and jump up and down to give audiences a unique, interactive theatrical experience from the moment the curtain opens. The fun-filled show brings the hit TV series to life on stage, giving families the opportunity to engage with their favorite characters like never before in an unforgettable first live theater experience.

“Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theater show for all preschoolers,” said Director Richard Lewis, who returns to adapt episodes from the hit TV show for stage as he did with the touring smash hit Peppa Pig’s Big Splash. “It’s been an incredible experience seeing the children’s reactions to the live stage show. It just confirms that Peppa Pig really is a worldwide phenomenon.”

“Audience response has been overwhelmingly positive to the first tour and we look forward to bringing Peppa’s story to life on stage once again with a whole new adventure,” said Jonathan Shank, Executive Producer, Red Light Management. “Kids love interacting with these characters on stage.”

Entertainment One Ltd. (LSE:ETO) is a global independent studio that specialises in the development, acquisition, production, financing, distribution and sales of entertainment content. The Company’s diversified expertise spans across film, television and music production and sales, family programming, merchandising and licensing, and digital content. Through its global reach and expansive scale, powered by deep local market knowledge, the Company delivers the best content to the world.

Entertainment One’s robust network includes film and television studio The Mark Gordon Company; content creation venture Amblin Partners with Steven Spielberg, DreamWorks Studios, Participant Media, and Reliance Entertainment; leading feature film production and global sales company Sierra Pictures; unscripted television production companies Renegade 83, Paperny Entertainment and Force Four Entertainment; world-class music labels Dualtone Music Group and Last Gang; and award-winning digital agency Secret Location.

The Company’s rights library is exploited across all media formats and includes more than 100,000 hours of film and television content and approximately 40,000 music tracks.

Theresa Caputo, from TLC’s hit show, Long Island Medium, will be appearing live at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, April 2, 2017 at 7:30PM. Theresa will share personal stories about her life and explain how her gift works. She will deliver healing messages to audience members and give people comfort knowing that their loved ones who passed are still with them, just in a different way. Tickets go on-sale Friday, December 16 at 11:00AM and can be purchased atwww.WeidnerCenter.com, 1-800-895-0071, or any Ticket Star location. Tickets start at $39.75 (plus applicable service charges) and are subject to change. Purchasing a ticket does not guarantee a reading.

“The Experience” brings Theresa face-to-face with her fans, as she lets spirit guide her through the audience. A video display ensures everyone in the venue has an up-close-hands-on experience regardless of seat location. “The experience isn’t about believing in mediums. It’s about witnessing something life-changing” says Theresa Caputo. “It’s like Long Island Medium live, witnessing first-hand spirit communication.”

The highly-rated show Long Island Medium follows Theresa’s life as a typical Long Island wife and mom with one very big difference…she can communicate with the dead. Since she cannot “turn off” this gift, messages from departed loved ones can come through at any time, which lead to spontaneous readings with those she encounters. The new season of Long Island Medium is scheduled to premiere Sunday, February 19, 2017 on TLC.

Theresa has appeared on such programs as “Jay Leno,” “Jimmy Fallon,” “Steve Harvey,” “Live with Kelly and Michael,” “Dr. Oz,” & “The Today Show.” Theresa’s second book titled “You Can’t Make This Stuff Up” was released in September 2014 and debuted at #9 on the NY Times Best Seller List. Her first book titled “There’s More to Life Than This” debuted in the fall of 2013.

Theresa has been a practicing medium for over 15 years. She helps individuals find closure by delivering healing messages. For Theresa, this is not just her job… this is her life. Learn more about Theresa at theresacaputo.com.